Emission norms in 11 cities by 2010

Concerned over increasing vehicular pollution across the country, the Central government has decided to tighten emission norms.

From April 1, 2010, Bharat Stage IV norms for four wheelers will be extended to 11 mega cities - Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat, Kanpur and Agra. The rest of the country will be brought under Bharat Stage III norms.

The Ministry of Shipping, Road, Transport and Highways is all set to bring the Bill in the monsoon session of the Parliament.

Speaking at the 18th meeting of the Consultative Committee of Members of Parliament, Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways T.R. Baalu said the Department of Road Transport and Highways was in the process of notifying the rules.

Besides emission norms, the consultative committee also discussed road safety norms. The minister said the Sundar Committee's proposal for earmarking a minimum one per cent of total proceeds of cess on diesel and petrol for Road Safety Fund is at advanced stage of approval.